MP3 Players and Pacemakers

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Reader Question: I'm thinking of getting my mom an MP3 player, but she has a pacemaker. Is there any chance it could make the pacemaker malfunction?

According to the FDA, the MP3 player itself won't make a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) malfunction. The bad news: The headphones might. Headphone speakers contain strong magnets, and new data from the American Heart Association suggests that if the headphone earpiece gets within an inch of a pacemaker or defibrillator it could interfere with or even temporarily deactivate it. That can lead to heart palpitations and other serious problems.

Your mom may be better off listening to music without headphones—which means an MP3 player might not be the ideal gift. That being said, if she really wants one she should be able to use it pretty safely by taking some precautions: Remind her not to store the headphones in her breast pocket or drape the earpieces over her chest when she's not listening. And if you or anyone else is listening to music with headphones, don't lay your head over her chest.

Disclaimer: Your seeking information on health related topics and/or Sandra Adamson Fryhofer, MD's providing such information herein constitutes neither the solicitation of nor the provision of medical advice, services, care or treatment. Communication with Dr. Fryhofer on this website does not create a doctor/patient relationship. For concerns about your own particular medical condition, you should consult your own medical professional, who can examine and evaluate you. Communication on a website is not a substitute for taking an active role in your own medical care and treatment and being personally seen by a physician of choice in your area.